(Mankato, MN) – Region Nine Development Commission is the recipient of a $200,000 grant from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota Foundation.

The non-profit will use the grant to expand the Rural Equity Learning Community, a learning cohort which explores ways to create communities that welcome diversity and strengthen local economies.

The program will be offered in two communities over the next two year, with Sleepy Eye has been chosen as the first location of this year’s cohort, in partnership with Sleepy Eye Public Schools and Sleepy Eye Economic Development.   The second location is still undecided.

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